Basic Motorcycle Safety

There’s no feeling quite like flying down an open road on two wheels. The wind rushing past you makes riding a motorcycle unlike anything else. But for all that freedom, motorcycles can also be dangerous if not used with caution. Not having the right equipment, not driving defensively, and not planning for the weather are good ways to get yourself into a dangerous position. This guide was made to help you stay safe while riding motorcycles. In addition to the rules listed below, don’t forget to take your bike in for regular service checks at licensed facilities such as Cool Springs Powersports. Our team in Franklin, Tennessee, is near Nashville, Clarksville, Murfreesboro, Dickson, and Hendersonville, Tennessee, as well as Huntsville, Alabama, and we help to keep riders safe by keeping their equipment reliable.

Proper Equipment

Every rider should get on the road with a full complement of protective equipment. The most important piece of gear you can wear is a helmet, so make sure you have a good DOT approved helmet with a proper fit. While a helmet should be at the top of your motorcycle equipment list, you should also make sure that your entire outfit is ready for the worst. A dedicated riding outfit will go a long way to keep you together in a crash, while your day to day blue jeans and t-shirt won’t do anything to help in a slide. If your helmet doesn’t have a facemask, get a set of goggles to protect your eyes from bugs and debris. It’s also important to have a sturdy set of boots, and a good set of gloves.

Eyes Open

Whenever you get on the road, assume that no one else is paying attention. Compared to a bike, driving a car takes relatively little focus, so you can safely assume that most drivers will be less alert than you are. A good rule to follow is to assume that all cars are only paying attention directly ahead. Give yourself plenty of room between the car ahead of you, and never spend time in a car’s blindspot.

Plan for the Weather

The time of year can have a wide range of impacts on your ride. Summer vacation months can put more drivers on the road, often with larger rigs like RVs and trailers, so you’ll have to account for the longer profile when maneuvering and passing. Fall can lead to increased rainfall, as well as a larger amount of wildlife, especially around crops like standing corn where a harvester can flush a hiding animal at a moment’s notice. The winter months bring an increased chance for ice and snow, so checking the forecast for freak storms can keep you off the roads when the bad weather moves in. Make sure that you have appropriate gear for the season you’re riding in, but never strip off layers to avoid overheating, instead, invest in gear with better ventilation to keep yourself protected without sacrificing comfort.

Motorcycles should be respected, and precautions should always be taken. But if you plan ahead and follow the necessary steps, you’ll probably get home safe. Don’t forget that the bike is almost as important as the rider when it comes to safety, and a broken motorcycle is a quick way to get yourself in trouble. Cool Springs Powersports can make sure your bike is in great condition and can help you with installing any upgrades, parts, or accessories you might want. Stop by our Franklin, Tennessee showroom if you live in Nashville, Clarksville, Murfreesboro, Dickson, or Hendersonville, Tennessee, or Huntsville, Alabama.